FIFA WORLD CUP 2018 RUSSIA TRAVEL GUIDE

The year 2018 is here and this year is a little too exciting for football fans. Why do you ask? FIFA WORLD CUP 2018 RUSSIA is near!

This year, the FIFA championship is more exhilarating because two new teams are being introduced; Iceland and Panama. FIFA world cup would take place from 14th June to 15th July in one of the most football oriented countries of the globe, The Russian Federation (Russia was also awarded Hosting rights in December 2010).

However, as a non-Russian football enthusiast, you are going to travel from your country to all the way to Russia to enjoy your favorite sport. The combination of wanderlust and football gives you a reason to look for the Fifa World Cup 2018 Russia Travel Guide. It is very much suggested that you should blow off a little steam and travel the beautiful country of Russia, after seeing some outrageous football matches to de-stress yourself.

Following are the best places to visit in Russia andthese schedules that would help you travel all around and find the nearest tourist spots.

Moscow

For starters, let’s talk about one of the biggest and well-known cities of Russia. The whole world knows that Moscow is the soul of Russia and one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

It has two stadiums; Luzhniki and Spartak. Both of these stadiums are going to be used for the tournament. The schedule is as follows:

Date

Matches

Stadium

June 14th, 2018

Russia vs Saudi Arabia

Luzhniki

June 16th, 2018

Argentina vs Iceland

Spartak

June 17th, 2018

Germany vs Mexico

Luzhniki

June 19th, 2018

Poland vs Senegal

Spartak

June 20th, 2018

Portugal vs Morocco

Luzhniki

June 23rd, 2018

Belgium vs Tunisia

Spartak

June 26th, 2018

Denmark vs France

Luzhniki

June 27th, 2018

Serbia vs Brazil

Spartak

July 1st, 2018

1B vs 2A

Spartak

July 3rd, 2018

1H vs 2G

Spartak

July 13th, 2018

Winner 57 vs Winner 58

Luzhniki

July 15th, 2018

Winner 59 vs Winner 60

Luzhniki

Now that you have the schedule of all the matches being held, you might as well chill and take a few trips to the nearest tourist spots and enjoy in exotic restaurants in Moscow, Russia.

1. Moscow Metro Station

As your main destination would be Luzhniki stadium, when you arrive in Moscow to watch the very first match between Russia and Saudi Arabia, you should probably get into the famous Moscow metro station that would take you to the different and most historic yet eye-pleasing Moscow’s points of interest.

2. Kremlin Armoury

Once you hop onto the metro, go to the Kremlin Armoury, which is one of the oldest museums of Russia. The mesmerizing beauty of artifacts, some of the finest jewelry, gunsmiths and painters work will astound you.

Tourists are usually thrilled to learn about the history of Russia, as some of the most mind-boggling events have taken place here.

3. The Red Square

The next spot that you should visit is the Red Square. This red square is one of the most beautiful places you’ll see in Moscow. The red square is made from one of the finest red bricks that would leave you mesmerized. It’s an eye candy to witness, It is also the center of Russia since all the streets link up to this infamous square.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

Next place you would want to visit is the Bolshoi Theatre Moscow. This is one of the most staggering theatres in the whole world. Its beautiful architecture sure is reflected in the performances that take place.

Russian Opera and Grand Ballet performances take place in this theatre. Maybe, check the schedule and see if you have time to view one of these performances, it would be one of the best experiences of your life.

Yekaterinburg

Yekaterinburg is fourth of the most populated city of Russia. Yekaterinburg has Russian Military headquarters as well. Some of the football matches are going to be held in the central stadium of Yekaterinburg. The schedule for the matches is given below:

Date

Matches

June 15th, 2018

Egypt vs Uruguay

June 21st, 2018

France vs Peru

June 24th, 2018

Japan vs Senegal

June 27th, 2018

Mexico vs Sweden

Before the second match of FIFA world cup between Egypt and Uruguay, you should probably travel to a few places and explore the city.

1. Ganina Yama

Being in Russia, you should understand that every city has its own list of historical events and places. Ganina Yama is one of those historical places. It is a place with seven temples present in them, each having their own history and belonging to a member of the Royal family.

2. QWERTY Monument

One of the most compelling things about Yekaterinburg is that it has multiple artistic yet empowering monuments present. You might not be able to see all of them but don’t miss out on the QWERTY monument.

It was built in 2005 and is also considered to be the most famous tourist spots. Many different events also take place at this monument.

3. Church of All Saints

Your next spot should be the Church of all Saints. This church has quite the interesting history. It is said to be made in the honor of the blood of all saints resplendent in the Russian land, hence its name.

This is the church where, the last emperor of Russia, Nicholas II and his family was shot by the Bolsheviks, which is why it withholds such importance. You should definitely visit this place.

Furthermore, Clicking Here would give you the information about some more places that you can travel to while you’re in this city.

St. Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is the second largest city in Russia. It is yet another destination for a football match to take place in the Krestovsky stadium. St. Petersburg is well known for its modern culture.

As much as it is modern, it has left behind every other city of Russia in historical pieces of evidence. It has more than 200 museums! There are some best hotels in St Petersburg to stay in throughout your vacation as well. You have to take a short tour to some of them before the game. Following is the schedule for this city:

Dates

Matches

June 15th, 2018

Morocco vs Iran

June 19th, 2018

Russia vs Egypt

June 22nd, 2018

Brazil vs Costa Rica

June 26th, 2018

Nigeria vs Argentina

July 10th, 2018

Winner 57 vs Winner 58

June 14th, 2018

Losers of two Semi Finals

1. Nevsky Prospect

While you’re going to be staying at Saint Petersburg, you might as well visit some of its renowned places and cultural heritage. The first place that would leave you completely stunned is the Nevsky Prospect. It is one of the streets of St. Petersburg that leads straight to Moscow.

This street has multiple attractions, The Rastrelliesque Stroganov Palace, Neoclassical Kazan Cathedral, Art Nouveau Bookhouse, Monument of Catherine the Great, Russian National library and the Singer house. So many places on one street, how can you miss out that experience?

2. Children’s Music Theatre

The next place that you’d most like to see if the Children’s Music Theatre. Whether or not you came with a kid, this music theatre will bring out the child in you! You can witness many colorful performances and learn about the culture of Russia.

3. Vasilyevsky Island

In St. Petersburg, Vasilyevsky Island is one of the places that you have to visit at least once in your lifetime. It is also one of the many beautiful places in Russia whichmust be visited once in a lifetime.

However, it’s not just for attraction but it has multiple education-related institutions on it such as the Imperial Academy of Sciences, Civil service academy, Zoology Museums, Russian Academy of Sciences and so much more.

Sochi

Sochi is one of the cities in Krasnodar Krai of Russia. The city is located along the Black Sea coast. Before going to the football matches that are going to be held in the First Olympic Stadium of Sochi, you should visit some places, which will be mentioned below right after the schedule of the game:

Dates:

Matches:

June 15th, 2018

Portugal vs Spain

June 18th, 2018

Belgium vs Panama

June 23rd, 2018

Germany vs Sweden

June 26th, 2018

Australia vs Peru

June 30th, 2018

1A vs 2B

June 7th, 2018 (Quarter-Finals)

Winner 51 vs Winner 57

As Sochi is located along the Black Sea, you can give yourself a tour to the Beach and sunbathe in the summers! This is one of the main attractions of Sochi and people mostly come to this place just to swim in the Black Sea and relax before the nail-biting match.

1. Mount Akhun

Another great tourist spot in Sochi is Mount Akhun. You can hike on this Russian mountain and have a great view of the city.

When you reach the top of the mountain, there is a viewing tower made up of the medieval-style stones that give a great, panoramic view of the city that would relax your eyes.

2. Farms

If you’re a foodie, you can always rely on Sochi to treat you with the best places to eat. For starters, you should visit the trout farm, where you can find multiple fresh farms produced food.

If you’re still left with any space in your tummy, there is a Dagomys tea plantation farm, which is one of the world’s topmost northern tea plantations.

Other than all the above-mentioned places, there are some other places that you probably might want to travel when you’re in Sochi. Clicking here would help.

Kazan

Kazan is another one of the largest cities in Russia. It is the sixth most populous city of Russia. Kazan lies in the confluence of the Volga and Kazanka rivers in Russia. The football matches will take place in the Kazan Arena and are mentioned below:

Dates

Matches

June 16th, 2018

France vs Australia

June 20th, 2018

Iran vs Spain

June 24th, 2018

Poland vs Colombia

June 27th, 2018

South Korea vs Germany

June 30th, 2018

1C vs 2D

July 6th, 2018 (Quarter-Finals)

Winner 49 vs Winner 50

Now that you have the schedule with you, you need to find yourself some mind soothing tourist spots to relax and have a little fun before the matches.

1. Chak Chak Museum

Naturally, as a food enthusiast, this place would definitely thrill you. This is not your normal antique-statue-monument-holding museum; this is a museum with food! Yes, you heard that right. Food.

This museum has the traditional Tatar food and drinks. The most traditional thing you would find here is the famous chak chak balls that are basically made of dough, dipped into honey. Mouth-watered already? Then don’t miss out on this place!

2. Kul Shareef Mosque

Next place that you should see is the Kul Shareef Mosque. It is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in Russia. Your eyes would be pleased to see such a well-constructed place.

3. Cuba Libre

If you’re just looking for a quiet place to have some drinks with your friends, Cuba Libre is your place. Cuba Libre in general means Rum and Coke. It is a small bar in Kazan where you can have some drinks and chat with the locals. You are promised to have a relaxing time before the big game.

Saransk

Saransk is one of the capital cities of the Republic of Mordovia, Russia. It is also the financial and economic center of Russia. Which is probably why it is one of the most important cities of Russia.

It is also one of the most pleasant cities in Russia and even though it’s geographically not that big, it has always been ahead of time when it comes to sports. It’s Mordovia Arena (The stadium), is chosen for some of the FIFA matches.

Dates

Matches

June 16th, 2018

Peru vs Denmark

June 19th, 2018

Columbia vs Japan

June 25th, 2018

Iran vs Portugal

June 28th, 2018

Panama vs Tunisia

Above given is the schedule for all the matches that are going to take place in Saransk. Now, since you know your schedule, you might also want to know details about some of the most dazzling places in Saransk.

1. Museum of War and Work Efforts

Let’s start off with the Museum of War and Work Efforts. As the name reflects, this museum is dedicated to the soldiers that fought and died in The Great Patriotic War, The Afghan War and the Chechen War.

One of the most astonishing things about this Museum is that its building structure resembles that of the borders of the Republic of Mordovia. Also, the roof of the building is shaped like a traditional local female hat.

2. Pushkin’s Park

After seeing this amazing museum, you’d probably want a quiet evening to yourself and for that, what you need to do is get into this absolutely delightful Pushkin’s Park.

The park is filled with lush green grass coupled with colorful flowers; you can have a nice evening, just looking at families enjoying themselves under the blue sky.

3. Cathedral of St. Fyodor Ushakov

Since you’ve now visited the parks the museums, you might also want to get into the Church’s now. The best church here is Saransk is the Cathedral of St. Fyodor Ushakov.

This church has everything that you need to know and understand the modern Russian Orthodox beliefs. It was very re-constructed in 2006 after the existing churches were not able to fulfill the needs of people.

If you’re still looking for some more interesting spots in Saransk to visit, Click Here!

Kaliningrad

Kaliningrad is the capital of the Russian province. This city has an interesting history and was reconstructed after the second world war. It is one of the places where some of the FIFA matches are going to place. The schedule is given below:

Dates

Matches

June 16th, 2018

Croatia vs Nigeria

June 25th, 2018

Spain v Morocco

June 27th, 2018

Serbia vs Switzerland

June 28th, 2018

England vs Belgium

While you’re going to be in Kaliningrad, you might as well take a little time off and visit some of the most exciting places in this city.

1. Museum of the World Ocean

First off, go to the Museum of the World Ocean. An interesting thing you might not know about Kaliningrad is that it is the only place in Baltics (State), that never freezes, which is why the sea is one of the main attractions of the city.

The museum of the world ocean has a small, yet exquisite aquarium in it, along with an exhibition that is based on Russian’s scientific exploration of the seas. This exhibition has all the information regarding oceans and its ecosystem. You can go there to completely lose yourself in the serenity of the world of oceans.

2. Kant’s Island

One of the places that you must visit when you’re in Kaliningrad is the Kant’s island. This island is named after Immanuel Kant, who was probably the most important philosopher of the 18th century. He was born and raised in Kaliningrad and did most of his work there.

The Kant’s island not only had its tombstone there but is also very popular for the Kant’s museum and the Albrecht of Prussia statue.

Kaliningrad is a small city with an exquisite history. Lonely Planet would help you gather more information about some of the other places in this beautiful city!

Samara

Samara is one of the sixth largest, the most economical, cultural, political and social centres of Russia. Some of the FIFA world cup 2018 matches are going to be held in the Cosmos Arena. The schedule is mentioned below:

Dates

Matches

June 17th, 2018

Costa Rica vs Serbia

June 21st, 2018

Denmark vs Australia

June 25th, 2018

Uruguay vs Russia

June 28th, 2018

Senegal vs Colombia

July 2nd, 2018

1E vs 2F

July 7th, 2018

Winer 51 vs winner 52

Being in Samara, we have some of the most interesting tourist spots for you to explore.

1. Samara Embankment

The first thing you need to do is get into the nearest metro and go to the Samara Embankment; a long road that runs alongside the Volga River.

This is filled with many different tourist attractions including many monuments and gardens, with peacefully laying flowers and greenery. Or if you want, you can just sit by the river and enjoy your evening.

2. Monument of Glory

Next stop, Monument of Glory, as pleasing as the name Is, this monument does appear to be one of the most glorious things you’ll ever see. This monument is a statue of 53 meters that is holding a pair of wings. The statue represents the residents of the city during World War 2.

3. Regional Museum of Art:

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How is it possible that when it comes to a city of Russia, you won’t find a museum? This Regional Museum of Art is one of the best museums to be at, especially if you want to meet the artists who have been working in the Volga Region.

Other than the above-mentioned places, you can Sightsee some more places as well!

Rostov-on-Don

Rostov-on-don is a port city and the Southern Federal District of Russia. It lies in the southeastern part of the east European plain of the Don River. The football matches that are going to be held in this city are taking place in the Rostov Arena. The schedule for these matches is given below:

Dates

Matches

June 17th, 2018

Brazil vs Switzerland

June 21st, 2018

South Korea vs Mexico

June 26th, 2018

Iceland vs Croatia

Before or after the matches, you would probably need some places to travel in Rostov-on-don. It is a beautiful city with many places that you can visit.

1. H20 Water Park

When you’re in Rostov-on-don, the first place that you need to get into is the H2O Water Park. It is one of the most exciting water parks in Russia with an amazing view. It is so well structured that you’ll be fascinated by its architecture. Just grab your towels and sunscreens and get into the magic world of water parks!

2. Ferris Wheel, One Sky

The next place you should be at is the Ferris Wheel, One Sky, I know it doesn’t seem like much and some of you must be thinking, what’s so interesting about a Ferris wheel? Well, you won’t believe the height of this wheel.

It is not just a wheel, it is an overall view of Rostov-on-don, you can see the entire city from this height while enjoying the ride. The height of this wheel is 65 meters which are almost equal to the height of a 24-story building.

3. Rostovskiy Zoo

One of the most interesting parks to look at. You will find many different types of species in this park including white-tailed eagles, tigers, lions and pygmy.

You will also find a number of endangered animals. Other than this, there is an aquarium in this zoo, where you can feed the fish and enjoy looking at different types of sea animals.

For further information about this mesmerizing city, Visit The Culture Trip and gather more information about tourist spots!

Nizhny Novgorod

Nizhny Novgorod, also known as Nizhny in short, is the administrative center of Volga district. This city is quite famous in science and education. This year, the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium is being used for some of the matches of FIFA world cup 2018. The schedule is given below:

Dates

Matches

June 18th, 2018

Sweden vs South Korea

June 21st, 2018

Argentina vs Croatia

June 24th, 2018

England vs Panama

June 27th, 2018

Switzerland vs Costo Rica

July 1st, 2018

1D vs 2C

July 6th, 2018

Winner 49 vs Winner 50

After having the schedule with you, you might want to scroll around the city and explore it, find some tourist spots to relax yourself before the matches.

1. The House Museum of Maxim Gorky:

Your first spot should be The House of Maxim Gorky, this house was made in the honor of the national hero of Russia, Maxim Gorky. He was a Soviet writer, founder of the socialist realism and political activist.

The museum is made of one of the best historic interiors and furnishings. You would see some amazing Russian Literature work for you to read. Visit and enjoy this once in a lifetime experience that will take you back to the 1900’s.

2. Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street:

The second place you need to visit is the Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street; this is the main and one of the oldest streets of Nizhny Novgorod. In every one of its turns, there are beautiful buildings along with the fountain tower, which reflect some of the best work of Nizhny’s architecture.

Furthermore, there are some local souvenir shops and café’s that would keep you entertained throughout your walk on the street. Also, at night, this street turns into a hub of evening activity. You see lit up bars where many people come to enjoy their night.

3. Chkalov Stairs:

Another one of the places that you just have to visit is the Chkalov stairs. Just as the name suggests, this place is full of stairs! These are not just steps, these are steps that connect Minin and Pozharsky Square, which are the upper and lower Volga embankments.

You might think that climbing stairs would be tiring and not worth it but you’re wrong. This staircase is not just a staircase, here, they arrange different sports including races. People often come here to just relax and enjoy the weather.

These are some of the tourist spots mentioned-above, but, if you still want to go ahead and explore more places, so, Click Here!

Volgograd

Volgograd is another one of the important cities of Russia. This city is most important for industrialization of Russia. The city is situated on the western bank of Volga River. It is one of the places where the FIFA matches would take place in the Volgograd Arena. Following are the matches that would be held there:

Dates

Matches

June 18th, 2018

Tunisia Vs England

June 22nd, 2018

Nigeria Vs Iceland

June 25th, 2018

South Arabia Vs Egypt

June 28th, 2018

Japan Vs Poland

After seeing the schedule, you should think about relaxing a little and exploring the city while you’re here.

1. Mamayev Kurgan

The first place you have to visit is the Mamayev Kurgan. This is one of the tallest statues in the entire world. This statue is the representation of Russians and how their war heroes fought and died for them in World War 2.

This Statue shows the significance of the Battle of Stalingrad to Russians. The statue is crowned by the name of The Motherland Call. This is one of the main attractions of Volgograd and you just have to go there.

2. Pavlov’s House

Your next destination should be the Pavlov’s House. When it comes to Russia and Russians, everything you see is relating to the World War 2.

This house is no ordinary house, as it may seem to be ordinary from its appearance, but it is a symbol of the strength of Russian Soldiers and how they managed to hold off the Germans for 60 days. Outside of the house, there is a memorial wall.

3. Muzkomediya

Now that you’ve seen enough historical places, you might want to visit the Musical Theatre of Muzkomediya.

This theatre is one of the most well-constructed and organized theatres in the world. It was made during the battle of Stalingrad and now you see many different and interesting shows taking place in it every week.

If you still want to discover some other places in Volgograd, Traveling for Fun would help you out.

Now that you have all the details that you need about Russia, it’s cities and the matches that are going to be taking place in these cities, you can sit back and relax yourself and just wait for the match since you don’t have to go through the trouble of looking for what to do before and after the match.